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Sysprep images for private distribution - best method
I'm finding that I've been installing/reinstalling windows a couple of times a month recently. Either I'm giving a "fresh start" to on of my household's computers or building a new computer for a friend or family member.
This not only takes a lot of time but also a lot of bandwidth. Updating windows over and over again is a pain and games are commonly 10-20GB a piece nowadays.
Here's my plan, can someone tell me if it makes sense or offer better methods?
Using VMware, create 3 images.-One image with only windows updates and essential programs (AV, VLC, browsers, etc).Make copies and sysprep the copies.
-A copy image of that one with all non-game programs commonly used (office, gimp, wtvr).
-And a third copy with everything including games.
Install them to the physical machines as needed.
I have several questions:
-How does licensing (other than windows 7's) work with sysprep? Are office licenses erased? What about non-MS programs like adobe photoshop? Should I just not be activating anything until the physical install?
-Are there any alternative 3rd party options to sysprep? Some sort of sysprep that allows you to choose what programs are installed during setup would be cool.
-I have a bit of experience with vmware, so I prefer using it but if there is something that fits my needs better let me know.
Anyway, I'm sure my methods can be improved upon a lot, so I'm open to any suggestions.
thanks